Nevada has moved to regulate the use of cryotherapy following the death of a woman from asphyxiation after using the treatment unsupervised. Cryotherapy involves a person being exposed to ultra cold temperatures for a few minutes at a time which, purportedly, promotes tissue regeneration and other health benefits. These claims have caused the treatment to be popular with celebrities and pro athletes leading to explosive growth in the number of facilities that offer it. However, a growing chorus of critics have spoken up including doctors who point out there is little evidence to support any of the beneficial claims. In addition, the treatment can easily lead to injury or, as in this case, death if not administered properly due to the use of liquid nitrogen. As of now, the new regulation represents guidelines rather than rules as no penalties exist for enforcement; but authorities have indicated no other regulatory action will be taken if providers voluntarily comply.
See, After Death, Nevada Issues Cryotherapy Guidelines, New York Times, November 21, 2015.
Special thanks to Jerry Cooper for bringing this article to my attention.
